Antique Cased Daguerreotype Portrait | Victorian Gentleman | Circa 1850s–1860s
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: North America (United States)
Material: Silvered copper photographic plate with gilt brass mat, glass cover, velvet interior, and leather-covered wooden case
Period: Mid 19th Century (circa 1850s–1860s)
Description
This beautiful Victorian-era cased portrait depicts a distinguished gentleman, preserved in its original hinged presentation case. The silvered photographic plate is set within an ornate gilt brass mat and protected beneath glass. When opened, the case reveals two richly colored red velvet interior panels with elegant embossed designs, creating a dramatic and luxurious presentation. The exterior leather-covered wooden case is finely tooled with scrolling floral decoration and retains its original clasp hardware, offering both historical authenticity and strong decorative charm.
Features
- Authentic mid-19th century cased portrait photograph
- Ornate gilt brass mat with protective glass cover
- Deep red velvet interior panels with embossed patterns
- Finely tooled leather-covered wooden case
- Original clasp hardware present
- Excellent display presence and period character
Cultural Significance
Daguerreotypes and early cased photographs mark the earliest generation of personal portrait photography. At a time when personal likeness was rarely captured, these intimate portraits were cherished possessions, valued both emotionally and artistically. Today they serve as important historical documents, reflecting Victorian fashion, identity, and craftsmanship while offering a rare glimpse into personal lives of the 19th century.
Condition
Expected age wear to the exterior case including rubbing, edge wear, and minor hinge separation. Velvet interior remains richly colored with strong embossed detail. Photograph shows light spotting and surface speckling typical of antique photographic plates. Structurally stable and well-preserved for its age.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Closed case:
Height: 3.75 in
Width: 3.25 in
Age
Approximately 160–175 years old
Learn More
Learn about the origins of early photography and Victorian photographic techniques through the National Museums Scotland resource.
Explore more authentic Victorian Artifacts & Historic Relics in our curated collection.
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: North America (United States)
Material: Silvered copper photographic plate with gilt brass mat, glass cover, velvet interior, and leather-covered wooden case
Period: Mid 19th Century (circa 1850s–1860s)
Description
This beautiful Victorian-era cased portrait depicts a distinguished gentleman, preserved in its original hinged presentation case. The silvered photographic plate is set within an ornate gilt brass mat and protected beneath glass. When opened, the case reveals two richly colored red velvet interior panels with elegant embossed designs, creating a dramatic and luxurious presentation. The exterior leather-covered wooden case is finely tooled with scrolling floral decoration and retains its original clasp hardware, offering both historical authenticity and strong decorative charm.
Features
- Authentic mid-19th century cased portrait photograph
- Ornate gilt brass mat with protective glass cover
- Deep red velvet interior panels with embossed patterns
- Finely tooled leather-covered wooden case
- Original clasp hardware present
- Excellent display presence and period character
Cultural Significance
Daguerreotypes and early cased photographs mark the earliest generation of personal portrait photography. At a time when personal likeness was rarely captured, these intimate portraits were cherished possessions, valued both emotionally and artistically. Today they serve as important historical documents, reflecting Victorian fashion, identity, and craftsmanship while offering a rare glimpse into personal lives of the 19th century.
Condition
Expected age wear to the exterior case including rubbing, edge wear, and minor hinge separation. Velvet interior remains richly colored with strong embossed detail. Photograph shows light spotting and surface speckling typical of antique photographic plates. Structurally stable and well-preserved for its age.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Closed case:
Height: 3.75 in
Width: 3.25 in
Age
Approximately 160–175 years old
Learn More
Learn about the origins of early photography and Victorian photographic techniques through the National Museums Scotland resource.
Explore more authentic Victorian Artifacts & Historic Relics in our curated collection.
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